Founder Ijele football club, Chief Naza Commends Stakeholders
By Ado Salisu
The founder and owner of Ijele Sports Club Chief Ferdinand Naza has commended Coaches, Players, Sponsors, Supporters club, Partners, and Fans for their support for the outgoing season.
The CEO of the club in his commendation, addressed all stakeholders of the club in a Press Statement in Enugu saying , “As the curtain was drawn on what has been a remarkable and eventful first season in the Nigerian National League (NNL), I write to you with a heart full of gratitude, humility, and renewed hope for the future of Ijele Sports Club”
Chief Naza said, “This season, though culminating in our relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO), has been one filled with powerful lessons, spirited performances, and moments that truly define the resilience and identity of this great club.
According to him, while the results did not always go our way, what cannot be disputed is the courage, belief and growth that our team exhibited in the face of numerous challenges both internally and externally”
He however blamed logistical obstacles, officiating inconsistencies, and a difficult calendar, to the broader systemic issues that plagued the league structure, this season which tested the club’s resolve as as youth club. yet, stood tall, competed with honour, and wore the badge with pride in every match .
Among many highlights of our debut NNL campaign was our emphatic 2–0 victory against Beyond Limit FC, the former champions of the 2024 season.
That the irregular performance, discipline, dynamic, and determination reminded us and our supporters of what this club is capable of achieving, showcased the potential that lies within our young squad, and the tactical abilities of our technical crew, even as we navigated the pressures of our maiden professional campaign.
He noted that the coaches and technical staff, displayed unyielding dedication, tactical ingenuity, and daily sacrifices. “You worked with limited resources, yet continued to inspire our players with belief and discipline.
You laid a strong foundation for what this club can become in the near future.”
Special commendation also goes to players, for their passion, professionalism, and perseverance. “You wore our colours with pride, gave your all on the pitch, and fought until the final whistle. Your effort will not be forgotten, and we are already looking forward to building on this experience together
He extolled the contributions of Sponsors, partners, Supporters club and said, “Your support and confidence in this project made it possible for us to compete at this level. You stood by us, not just in the moments of glory, but also in the trials that define a true sporting journey. Your belief in Ijele Sports Club is the fuel that powers our vision”
To the supporters and fans, “You are the heart of this club. Whether at home in Enugu or away in far-flung towns across Nigeria, your chants, your drumming, and your presence lifted our spirits. You have shown that Ijele is more than just a team, it is a movement.
We heard your voices, we saw your colours, and we felt your love”
“Let it be known that Ijele will be back. stronger. better. wiser. We are returning to the NLO 1 not with bowed heads, but with renewed focus and an iron resolve to correct our shortcomings. We will restructure, we will reinforce, and we will rise”
Chief Naza noted that to every person who stood by the club through the ups and the downs are part of the journey, and the success story will not be complete without them.
“Together, we remain Ijele, the pride of the East, the heartbeat of the people”, He concluded
